<p>My aim for this thread is to question whether or not the quality and experiences will have their variations from UC to UC.</p>
<p>My biggest concern is not being able to find a job upon graduating, which is highly expected in this economy. </p>
<p>My major is Mechanical Engineering. So far I have no prior work experience in this field, but am trying to. I have googled info about engineering and found some internships at where I live, but they all require an AA degree. I know getting an AA degree would benefit me further, but what are some chances that, for example, going to UCLA could possibly give me over UCSD? Basically, what are the differences at the various UC's? And I forgot to mention, I'm currently at a CC.</p>
<p>And I think I could be off on some of these info, so correct me if I'm wrong. Any future engineers out there willing to give their two cent will be greatly appreciated. Btw, I'm building an RC airplane soon! =) (just for fun)</p>
<p>We can only talk about prestige effect if you are choosing among the UCs. However, you sounded like you are comparing an AA degree from a ccc with a BS degree in engineering from a UC? </p>
<p>All major UCs are good schools, especially the top 5 UCs. For engineering, there is no doubt that UCB stands out. But if you get into UCLA or UCSD, I would say the quality of the education you receive would probably be the same. Getting into a good school is barely the first small step we are talking. Our future success as an engineer really is still unknown. </p>
<p>If you think about taking an easier way out to get your AA degree, I personally would not recommend it. I even think most engineers should actually have the Master degree pocketed in the future. Engineering is such a complex division, it truly requires a good amount of work and dedication. </p>
<p>Again, this is just my personal opinions. I am a bit old fashioned and conservative when it comes to education. There is no doubt that you can turn out to be the best engineer out there even with AA degree. Do what is right for you, and good luck!</p>
<p>Their are only a few differences between the UC’s and even the CSU’s when it comes to Mech Eng. It hardly matters on undergrad level unless you are jumping right into grad school. Generally a good litmus test is the quality of the schools Aerospace Eng. program which are sometimes yoked to Mech. At some schools their may be more focus and funding on the Chem or BioChem Engineers. It sounds like you would be better fitted sticking to Mech and Aero or a solid Mech school. </p>
<p>For solid Mech. SLO is the best for practical experience and with a bachelors, many find better jobs they like with higher pay than Bach. UC grads. Of course UCB is great for Mech. but you’d be better jumping into grad school or moving to a better place with more jobs for you. UCSD is good for Mech and Aero for undergrad compared to UCLA which is more geared towards grad in the field. Of course if you are hardcore and can get into Caltech and do Applied Mechanics you’d be well off if landed right job at NASA.
UCSB also has a great Mech. program and from what I know and seen, Davis seems really decent as well. Quite a few of SB Mech and Chem guys tend to like to go work for oil companies, move, or jump into grad school.</p>
<p>You seem reasonable and intelligent enough not to buy into these nOOb public school prestige perceptions. Even if you went to a CSU or UCR, it certainly does not mean you will be looked down upon in the field or getting less pay. You finishing a Mech degree is prestige enough and considered an accomplishment over what California public institution you choose. CSULB, CSULA, and CSUN all have great Mech programs whereby people want to work right away plus the students are very collaborative. CSULB, I would say is in a more desirable location and a slight bit better than say CSULA but all these differences are so slight they are hardly noticeable. If you are interested in Aerospace as well (figuring you have a RC airplane) and want to work with some cool people El Segundo is nearby. Many Mech. guys love planes, trains, and automobiles in so cal and go on to work with a Bachelors in jobs they seem to love. CSUN (as well as LB and LA) also puts out a lot of Mech. students that go on to work at Toyota, Nissan etc.</p>
<p>Wow, thanks for the great responses, guys. I truly am very thankful.</p>
<p>And Kmazza, you are so right about “Mech guys.” I am a huge fan of automobiles, I don’t know why-- I just love airplanes, automobiles, or anything that has to do with electronics. </p>
<p>I was putting together my RC car once, and believe me it was fun, as i totally forgot about time. Worked for hours and didn’t even look at the clock.</p>